More About ORBERA

ORBERA™ Intragastric Balloon

What Is ORBERA?

ORBERA is a non-surgical gastric balloon procedure designed to assist adult patients in losing and maintaining weight. Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC is the first hospital in Pennsylvania to perform this noninvasive procedure.

About the Gastric Balloon Procedure

Your bariatric surgeon will place a soft, yet durable, deflated balloon down your throat and into your stomach. The balloon is then filled with saline until it is about the size of a small melon. The procedure takes 20-30 minutes and you can typically go home the same day.

Removal of the gastric balloon

After six months, the balloon is deflated and removed without surgery or any incisions. You will still receive counseling for an additional six months after balloon removal to aid in your weight loss journey.

The program includes balloon insertion and removal as well as a 12-month extensive lifestyle program.

What to Expect After Your Gastric Balloon Procedure

Weight loss should occur, with the most of it typically occurring in the first three months. On average patients lost about three times more weight than those using diet and exercise alone. Adjustments to your eating habits and continuing to live an active lifestyle will contribute to your success.

Gastric Balloon Quick Facts

​Description:

​For patients looking for nonsurgical weight loss options.

The balloon is inserted into the stomach and filled with saline without surgery or incisions. After six months, it is removed also noninvasively.

How you lose weight:

​By taking up space in your stomach, the balloon reinforces proper portion control and helps you eat smaller portions. Healthy eating and regular exercise post-balloon removal will aid you in continued weight loss.

​Weight loss:

​On average, patients lose more than 3 times the weight loss of diet and exercise alone.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

UPMC is an equal opportunity employer. UPMC policy prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, genetics, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected group status. Further, UPMC will continue to support and promote equal employment opportunity, human dignity, and racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. This policy applies to admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in UPMC programs and activities. This commitment is made by UPMC in accordance with federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations.

Medical information made available on UPMC.com is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely entirely on this information for your health care needs. Ask your own doctor or health care provider any specific medical questions that you have. Further, UPMC.com is not a tool to be used in the case of an emergency. If an emergency arises, you should seek appropriate emergency medical services.